How to Become an OB-GYN Medical Assistant: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Venturing into the realm of OB-GYN medical assistant careers in the USA presents a unique expedition. Aspiring professionals often encounter a labyrinth of fragmented data when seeking clarity on roles, required credentials, and state-specific regulations. Pinpointing precise details about certification pathways, daily responsibilities in diverse clinical settings, and realistic salary expectations demands meticulous investigation.

Sorting through generalized healthcare career information to extract specifics relevant to OB-GYN can be a formidable task. This guide aims to illuminate the intricacies of this rewarding field, offering focused insights to streamline your informational journey and empower your pursuit of this specialized healthcare vocation.

Key Things You Should Know About How to Become an OB-GYN Medical Assistant

• Education and Certification: OB-GYN medical assistant programs are often required, and certification is highly preferred.
• Certification Exams: Certification requires passing exams like the CMA, RMA, or CCMA.
• Job Outlook: The medical assistant field is projected to grow, with 783,900 jobs in 2023 and a 15% increase (118,000 new jobs) expected by 2033.
• Work Settings: OB-GYN medical assistants work in various settings, including OB-GYN departments within physicians' offices, hospitals, and clinics.
• Competitive Salaries: Physician assistants earn around $120,212, OB/GYN medical assistants earn around $118,065, certified medical assistants earn between $41,051 and $47,662, varying by location, and non-certified medical assistants earn around $38,040.

Table of Contents

1. How can you become an OB-GYN medical assistant in 2025?
2. What does an OB-GYN medical assistant do?
3. What are the educational requirements for becoming an OB-GYN medical assistant?
4. What skills are required for OB-GYN medical assistants?
5. What is the certification and licensing process for OB-GYN medical assistants?
6. What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as an OB-GYN medical assistant?
7. How much can you earn as an OB-GYN medical assistant?
8. Can I find cost-effective, accredited training options?
9. How can I finance my continuing education and career growth?
10. Can OB-GYN Medical Assistants Transition to Healthcare Administration Roles?
11. What is the job market like for an OB-GYN medical assistant?
12. What subspecialties and career paths are available for OB-GYN medical assistants?
13. What challenges should you consider as an OB-GYN medical assistant?
14. How Will Digital Transformation Impact the Role of OB-GYN Medical Assistants?
15. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an OB-GYN Medical Assistant

How can you become an OB-GYN medical assistant in 2025?

Becoming an OB-GYN medical assistant involves a combination of education, training, and sometimes certification. This path prepares individuals to support healthcare professionals in women's health settings.

• Complete an Educational Program: Many aspiring OB-GYN medical assistants start with a formal training program offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and universities. These programs provide a structured curriculum covering essential medical knowledge and skills, including anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures specific to OB-GYN settings. Many accelerated medical assistant programs have sprung up to meet industry and workforce demands.
• Gain Practical Experience: Externships or internships are often part of training programs, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world clinical settings. During these placements, students may assist with patient intake, prepare examination rooms, and observe various OB-GYN procedures, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.
• Obtain Certification: While not always mandatory, certification enhances job prospects. Certification demonstrates a medical assistant's competency and commitment to professional standards. Organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offer certification exams.
• State Regulations: Some states have their own regulations. It's crucial to research the specific requirements of the state where you plan to work, as some may require registration or licensure in addition to, or instead of, national certification.

The journey to becoming an OB-GYN medical assistant is a structured process. This career path offers a fulfilling way to contribute to women's healthcare.

Where do medical assistants typically work?  BLS data indicates that offices of physicians have the highest level of employment for medical assistants, with 427,730 individuals employed. General medical and surgical hospitals employ the second-largest number, at 107,450 medical assistants. Outpatient care centers and Offices of other health practitioners follow, with 70,580 and 61,550 employed respectively. Finally, Employment services have a considerably lower level of employment for medical assistants, with 19,290 individuals, as shown in the graph below.

What does an OB-GYN medical assistant do?

OB-GYN medical assistants play a crucial role in women's healthcare, performing a variety of clinical and administrative tasks. Their work supports the smooth operation of OB-GYN offices and clinics.

• Patient Preparation: This includes taking patients to examination rooms, explaining procedures, ensuring their comfort, and positioning them appropriately for the physician.
• Vital Signs: This involves accurately measuring and documenting a patient's temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiration rate. These measurements provide essential baseline data for the physician.
• Medical History: Assistants collect detailed information about a patient's past illnesses, surgeries, allergies, medications, and family medical history. This comprehensive record helps the physician in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Assisting Physicians: Assistants play a vital role in gynecological exams, prenatal check-ups, and other OB-GYN procedures. They may hand instruments to the physician, provide support to the patient, and ensure the smooth flow of the examination. Comprehensive medical assistant training can help you master these skills more quickly.
• Laboratory Procedures: OB-GYN medical assistants may collect and prepare specimens such as urine, blood, and tissue samples for laboratory analysis. They may also perform simple in-office tests, such as pregnancy tests or urinalysis.
• Medication Administration: This task requires a thorough understanding of medication dosages, routes of administration, and potential side effects. Assistants must follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety.
• Office Procedures: In addition to clinical duties, OB-GYN medical assistants manage various administrative tasks. This includes scheduling and confirming appointments, managing patient records, handling phone calls, and processing insurance forms.

OB-GYN medical assistants are essential in the healthcare team. They provide vital support to both patients and medical staff.

What are the educational requirements for becoming an OB-GYN medical assistant?

The educational requirements for OB-GYN medical assistants typically involve completing a formal training program. These programs provide the necessary knowledge and skills for the role.

• High School Diploma/GED: A high school diploma or GED is a basic requirement, demonstrating a foundation in general education, including reading, writing, and basic mathematics, necessary for success in a medical assistant program. This requirement is also common in many fast track degree programs.
• Medical Assistant Program: Completing a certificate, diploma, or associate's degree program. These programs vary in length and scope. Certificate and diploma programs typically focus on essential skills and can be completed in a shorter timeframe, while associate's degree programs offer a more comprehensive education, including general education courses.
• Curriculum: These programs cover topics like anatomy, medical terminology, and clinical procedures, providing students with a strong foundation in the healthcare field. Key subjects include anatomy and physiology (understanding the structure and function of the human body, with a focus on the female reproductive system), medical terminology (learning the language of medicine), clinical procedures (developing proficiency in essential clinical skills), and OB-GYN specifics (some programs include specialized training in obstetrics and gynecology).
• Externship: Many programs include an externship or internship. This hands-on experience is a crucial component of medical assistant training, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in a clinical setting under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals.

Formal education is a cornerstone for those entering this field. It equips them with the competencies needed to excel.

What skills are required for OB-GYN medical assistants?

OB-GYN medical assistants need a diverse set of skills to perform their duties effectively. These skills range from clinical proficiency to interpersonal abilities.

• Clinical Skills: These are fundamental to providing direct patient care, including taking vital signs; assisting with exams (preparing patients, positioning them, and providing support to the physician); and performing basic lab tests, such as collecting and preparing specimens, and conducting simple in-office tests.
• Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication with patients, physicians, and other staff is essential for ensuring patient understanding, relaying information accurately, and fostering a positive healthcare environment. This includes active listening, verbal and non-verbal communication, and the ability to explain medical information in a way that patients can understand.
• Organizational Skills: Efficiently managing patient information, both in electronic health records (EHR) and paper formats, is crucial for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records. Strong organizational skills are also necessary for scheduling appointments, coordinating patient flow, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Technical Skills: OB-GYN medical assistants must be proficient in using various medical instruments and equipment, such as speculums, ultrasound machines, and fetal monitors, as well as being adept at using EHR systems to input and retrieve patient data, schedule appointments, and manage billing information. Some acquire these skills through affordable medical billing and coding online programs.
• Interpersonal Skills: OB-GYN settings often involve sensitive and personal issues, requiring medical assistants to be compassionate, understanding, and supportive. Strong interpersonal skills help build trust with patients, alleviate anxiety, and create a comfortable environment.
• Attention to Detail: Accuracy is paramount in healthcare. OB-GYN medical assistants must pay close attention to detail when recording patient information, administering medications, and following procedures to prevent errors and ensure patient safety.

A combination of hard and soft skills is vital for success in this role. These abilities enable medical assistants to contribute to a positive healthcare experience.

What is the certification and licensing process for OB-GYN medical assistants?

Certification and licensing for OB-GYN medical assistants can vary by state, but certification is often preferred or required by employers. This process validates the individual's knowledge and skills.

• Certification Exams: Passing a certification exam, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The CMA exam covers a wide range of topics, including clinical, administrative, and general medical knowledge. Other certifying organizations include the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), which offers the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
• National Certification: Earning a national certification is widely recognized and demonstrates that a medical assistant has met a standardized level of competency. It can enhance job prospects and provide greater career flexibility.
• State Regulations: Checking specific state regulations, as some states may have additional requirements. Some states may require medical assistants to register with the state health board or obtain a license to practice. These regulations can vary significantly, so it's essential to research the requirements of the specific state.
• Continuing Education: Maintaining certification often requires completing continuing education. This ensures that medical assistants stay up-to-date with the latest medical advancements, technologies, and best practices. Certification organizations typically require certified individuals to complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) over a specific period to maintain their credentials.

Certification demonstrates a commitment to professional standards. It can significantly enhance career opportunities.

The Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade may be contributing to a decrease in the supply of OB/GYNs, even as demand for their services rises. The AAMC reports that states with abortion bans experienced a 10.5% drop in OB/GYN residency applicants in 2023, compared to a 5.2% decrease nationwide, as shown in the graphic below.

What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as an OB-GYN medical assistant?

OB-GYN medical assistants must adhere to strict ethical and legal guidelines to ensure patient safety and maintain professional integrity. These guidelines are fundamental to providing quality care.

• Patient Confidentiality: Maintaining patient privacy and adhering to HIPAA regulations. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets the standard for protecting sensitive patient information. OB-GYN medical assistants must understand and comply with HIPAA regulations to safeguard patient privacy and confidentiality. This includes protecting both written and electronic health records, as well as any verbal communication about patients.
• Scope of Practice: Understanding and working within the defined scope of practice. Medical assistants must be aware of the tasks they are legally allowed to perform and those that are beyond their scope of practice. Performing tasks outside their scope can lead to legal repercussions and jeopardize patient safety. Scope of practice is often defined by state law and professional guidelines.
• Professional Boundaries: Maintaining professional boundaries with patients. OB-GYN medical assistants must establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships with patients. This includes avoiding personal relationships, conflicts of interest, and any behavior that could be perceived as inappropriate or exploitative.
• Informed Consent: Respecting patient autonomy and informed consent. Patients have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare. OB-GYN medical assistants play a role in supporting this process by ensuring that patients understand the information provided by the physician and have the opportunity to ask questions.
• Accurate Documentation: Accurate and thorough documentation is essential for providing quality care, ensuring continuity of care, and protecting both the patient and the healthcare provider. OB-GYN medical assistants must record patient information, including vital signs, medical history, and treatment details, in a clear, concise, and objective manner.
• Ethical Decision-Making: OB-GYN medical assistants may encounter situations that require them to make ethical judgments. These situations may involve conflicts between patient autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Adhering to a code of ethics and seeking guidance from supervisors or ethics committees can help medical assistants navigate these complex situations.

Adherence to these guidelines is crucial for upholding the trust placed in healthcare professionals. It ensures that patients receive care that is both safe and respectful.

How much can you earn as an OB-GYN medical assistant?

The earnings of an OB-GYN medical assistant can vary based on several factors. These factors include experience, location, and the specific healthcare setting.

• Experience Level: Entry-level assistants typically earn less than those with experience. As OB-GYN medical assistants gain experience, they develop greater proficiency in their skills, become more efficient in their duties, and often take on more responsibilities. This increased value translates to higher earning potential. Some may even explore lateral roles or specializations—for instance, those curious about how to become an aesthetic medical assistant may find that their foundational clinical skills can transition well into the cosmetic healthcare space, offering both variety and income potential.
• Geographic Location: Salaries can differ significantly between states and cities. The cost of living, demand for healthcare services, and prevalence of unionization can all influence salary levels. For example, OB-GYN medical assistants working in metropolitan areas or states with a higher cost of living tend to earn more than those in rural areas.
• Healthcare Setting: Hospitals, clinics, and private practices may offer different pay scales. Hospitals, particularly large medical centers, may offer higher salaries and more comprehensive benefits packages. Clinics and private practices may offer competitive salaries, and the work environment can vary significantly.
• Certification: Certified medical assistants often earn more. Certification demonstrates a medical assistant's competency and commitment to professional standards, which can lead to higher earning potential. If you're wondering how to become an RMA, the process typically involves completing an accredited medical assisting program, gaining relevant clinical experience, and passing a national certification exam—all of which can enhance both job opportunities and salary prospects.

While the salary is an important consideration, many find the work itself rewarding. The chance to make a difference in patients' lives is a significant benefit.

OB-GYN physicians earn an impressive average salary of $324,201, while OB-GYN physician assistants bring in about $120,212 each year. OB-GYN medical assistants make around $118,065 annually, with those in Pennsylvania earning slightly more at $118,627. Certified medical assistants typically earn $43,211, though salaries can vary by location — for example, they make $47,662 in California, $41,051 in Florida, and $42,261 in Ohio.

Meanwhile, non-certified medical assistants earn about $38,040 per year. Overall, OB-GYNs and physician assistants tend to earn significantly more than medical assistants, and for medical assistants, location can play a big role in salary differences. These figures are shown in the graph below.

Can I find cost-effective, accredited training options?

Evaluating a program’s accreditation, curriculum depth, and clinical placement opportunities is essential when considering a career as an OB-GYN medical assistant. Many prospective professionals seek cost-effective solutions that do not compromise quality. In this context, exploring online medical assistant programs can offer flexible, affordable options while ensuring adherence to industry standards. Carefully reviewing these programs based on financial investment, state-specific requirements, and post-graduation support can enhance both educational outcomes and long-term career growth.

How can I finance my continuing education and career growth?

Pursuing advanced training is pivotal for OB-GYN medical assistants aiming for roles with greater responsibility and leadership. Strategic investments in continuing education—through specialized certifications or targeted administrative courses—can expand your clinical and managerial expertise. Evaluating cost-effective programs, such as the cheapest online healthcare administration degree, can provide a robust framework to enhance both practical skills and financial planning. Additionally, exploring employer-sponsored training, scholarships, and flexible learning formats may ease budget constraints while accelerating career advancement.

Can OB-GYN Medical Assistants Transition to Healthcare Administration Roles?

OB-GYN medical assistants interested in expanding their career trajectories into management can benefit from targeted administrative training that complements their clinical expertise. Focused coursework in healthcare management equips professionals with essential skills such as strategic planning, budgeting, and leadership—capabilities that are increasingly demanded in supervisory roles and clinic operations. Moreover, enrolling in fastest healthcare administration online programs facilitates the acquisition of contemporary administrative knowledge while maintaining clinical responsibilities. This strategic blend of hands-on experience and formal business education positions OB-GYN medical assistants to effectively navigate transition pathways into healthcare administration, ultimately broadening their career prospects.

What is the job market like for an OB-GYN medical assistant?

The job market for OB-GYN medical assistants is influenced by the overall demand for healthcare professionals. This demand is expected to grow in the coming years.

• Growing Demand: The healthcare industry is projected to experience growth. This growth is driven by several factors, including the aging population, technological advancements in medicine, and increasing access to healthcare services. As the demand for healthcare services rises, so does the need for support staff, including medical assistants.
• Aging Population: As people live longer, they require more medical care, particularly for chronic conditions and age-related health issues. This trend is expected to drive demand for healthcare professionals across various specialties, including OB-GYN.
• Specialized Care: The demand for specialized care, including OB-GYN services, is also increasing. Women's health services, including prenatal care, gynecological care, and fertility treatments, are essential and growing areas of healthcare. This increasing demand for specialized care contributes to a positive job outlook for OB-GYN medical assistants.
• Job Opportunities: OB-GYN medical assistants are employed in a variety of healthcare settings, including physician's offices (where many OB-GYN medical assistants work in private practices, assisting physicians), hospitals (which employ medical assistants in OB-GYN departments, labor and delivery units, and women's health centers), and clinics (such as community health centers, women's health clinics, and specialized clinics).
• Career shifts: OB-GYN medical assistants can get higher pay as nurses via medical assistant to LPN bridge program online offerings by respected institutions, among other programs.

 In 2024, the median pay for medical assistants was $44,200 per year, or $21.25 per hour. As of 2023, there were approximately 783,900 medical assistant jobs in the United States. Employment for medical assistants is projected to grow by 15% between 2023 and 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in an employment increase of about 118,000 jobs over the decade. These figures, shown in the graphic below, highlight a strong and growing demand for medical assistants, offering solid job prospects and stable income opportunities.

What subspecialties and career paths are available for OB-GYN medical assistants?

While "OB-GYN medical assistant" is a specialized role, there are opportunities for further specialization and career advancement. This can lead to increased responsibilities and opportunities.

Specialization

Within the field of OB-GYN, medical assistants can specialize to enhance their skills and focus on specific areas of women's health. Here are some examples:

• Fertility: Assisting with fertility treatments, providing patient education, and monitoring patients undergoing procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). They may also help with medication administration, appointment scheduling, and collecting and preparing specimens for lab analysis.
• Prenatal Care: Providing comprehensive support to pregnant patients, assisting with prenatal check-ups, and conducting patient education on various stages of pregnancy, childbirth preparation, and postpartum care. This could involve taking vital signs, collecting urine samples, documenting patient concerns, and educating on topics like nutrition, exercise, and warning signs during pregnancy.
• Labor and Delivery: Assisting medical staff during childbirth, monitoring patients during labor, and providing support to families. Responsibilities may include preparing the delivery room, monitoring fetal heart rates, assisting with pain management techniques, and providing emotional support to the mother and her partner.

Further Education

Pursuing further education can significantly broaden career opportunities for OB-GYN medical assistants, allowing them to take on more advanced roles in healthcare.

• Registered Nurse (RN): A medical assistant can pursue an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Nursing to become an RN. This allows them to provide a higher level of patient care, administer medications, develop care plans, and work in various settings like hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
• Healthcare Administration: A Bachelor's or Master's degree can prepare a medical assistant for a management role, where they might oversee the operations of a healthcare facility, manage budgets, and ensure efficient patient care delivery. A popular pathway is through completing an affordable online Master's in Healthcare Administration degree.

Supervisory Roles

With experience and additional training, OB-GYN medical assistants can advance to positions with greater responsibility, taking on leadership roles within the healthcare setting.

• Medical Office Manager: This role involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of an OB-GYN office, including managing administrative staff, handling patient scheduling, coordinating billing and insurance processes, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Clinical Supervisor: A clinical supervisor is responsible for overseeing the work of other medical assistants, ensuring that they are providing high-quality patient care, adhering to protocols, and effectively managing clinical workflows. They may also be involved in training new staff and conducting performance evaluations.

Related Fields

The skills and experience gained as an OB-GYN medical assistant can serve as a foundation for transitioning to other healthcare careers.

• Medical Coding and Billing Specialist: This role involves specializing in the administrative side of healthcare, using standardized coding systems (like ICD-10 and CPT) to accurately document diagnoses and procedures for insurance claim processing and billing.
• Health Educator: A health educator focuses on promoting wellness by developing and implementing programs that teach individuals and communities about healthy behaviors, disease prevention, and healthcare resources. In an OB-GYN setting, they might educate patients on prenatal care, family planning, and women's health issues.
• Labor and Delivery Doula: While not always considered a direct "career advancement," a medical assistant with L&D experience may choose to become a Doula. Doulas provide non-medical support to women during childbirth.
• Women's Health Advocate: Some medical assistants transition into advocacy roles, working with organizations or community groups to promote women's health initiatives, improve access to care, and raise awareness about important health issues.

Career growth is possible for those who seek to expand their knowledge and skills. Continuous learning and professional development are key. 

What challenges should you consider as an OB-GYN medical assistant?

Working as an OB-GYN medical assistant can be rewarding, but it also presents certain challenges. Understanding these challenges can help individuals prepare for the realities of the job.

• Emotional Demands: OB-GYN medical assistants often work with patients facing a wide range of emotional and sensitive issues, including infertility (assisting couples struggling with infertility, which can be emotionally challenging), pregnancy loss (supporting patients who have experienced miscarriages or stillbirths), and difficult diagnoses (assisting with patients who receive difficult diagnoses, such as gynecological cancers or complications during pregnancy). These situations are also common in other specialties—those exploring related paths might ask, what does a podiatry medical assistant do, especially since podiatry also involves ongoing patient care, chronic conditions, and the emotional weight of mobility-related issues.
• Fast-Paced Environment: OB-GYN offices and clinics can be hectic environments, with a high volume of patients and numerous tasks to manage. Medical assistants must be able to work efficiently under pressure, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changing situations.
• Physical Demands: The job can be physically demanding, requiring medical assistants to stand for extended periods, walk frequently, and assist patients with mobility issues.
• Continuing Education: The healthcare field is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and procedures emerging regularly. OB-GYN medical assistants must be committed to lifelong learning to stay current in their practice and provide the best possible care to patients.
• Balancing Tasks: OB-GYN medical assistants often juggle a variety of clinical and administrative responsibilities. They must be able to multitask effectively, prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, and ensure that patient care remains the top priority. For those comparing specialties, it’s also useful to research roles like pediatric assistants—especially when considering compensation differences such as the pediatric medical assistant salary, which can vary based on experience, location, and healthcare setting.
• Exposure to Bodily Fluids: OB-GYN medical assistants may come into contact with blood, urine, and other bodily fluids during various procedures and examinations. Adhering to strict infection control protocols and using personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential to minimize the risk of exposure and maintain a safe work environment.
• OB/GYN Workforce Challenge: The U.S. faces a significant issue with its OB/GYN workforce; Many U.S. hospitals have been forced to close delivery services, and this continues; the OB/GYN shortage is worsened by too few residency positions.

As shown in the graphic below, the United States has 46,554 active OB/GYNs, including 595 specialists in maternal and fetal medicine. A growing OB/GYN shortage is evident, with over 200 hospitals across the U.S. closing their delivery services in the past decade, a trend that continues into 2024 with 19 more hospitals planning to discontinue or pause maternity care, or change their status, despite these hospitals still handling nearly 1 in 10 births nationwide. This shortage is largely influenced by the limited number of residency positions, as the number of available positions falls short of the strong interest in this specialization, resulting in fewer OB/GYNs entering the workforce.

Despite these challenges, many find the work to be deeply fulfilling. The ability to support women's health makes it a worthwhile career.

How Will Digital Transformation Impact the Role of OB-GYN Medical Assistants?

Advances in digital healthcare are redefining both patient care and administrative processes within OB-GYN settings. Enhanced electronic health records, telemedicine services, and remote diagnostic tools are becoming integral to daily operations, demanding higher digital literacy from medical assistants. Embracing these technological innovations not only improves clinical efficiency but also opens up opportunities for leadership in digital healthcare initiatives. To navigate this evolving landscape, professionals may consider augmenting their skill set through targeted business and management training, such as a fast track MBA in healthcare management online.

Here’s What Graduates Say About Their OB-GYN Medical Assistant Careers

Working as an OB-GYN medical assistant is incredibly fulfilling because I get to support women through some of the most significant moments in their lives. Knowing I play a part in ensuring their comfort and well-being, from prenatal care to postnatal support, gives me immense satisfaction. I'm so glad I chose this career path. Judith

I love the fast-paced environment of an OB-GYN office, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn. The blend of administrative tasks, patient interaction, and assisting with medical procedures keeps me engaged and constantly expanding my skill set, plus the team I work with feels like a second family. This job has been more rewarding than I ever imagined. Brianna

Being an OB-GYN medical assistant allows me to make a tangible difference in my community by providing essential healthcare services to women. I am proud to be a part of a profession that empowers women to take control of their health and well-being, and I feel a deep sense of purpose knowing my work contributes to healthier families. I can't imagine doing anything else. Susanna

Key Findings

• Medical assistant employment settings: Offices of physicians employ the most medical assistants (427,730), followed by general hospitals (107,450), outpatient care centers (70,580), offices of other health practitioners (61,550), and employment services (19,290) (BLS).

• OB/GYN workforce shortages: The U.S. has 46,554 active OB/GYNs, including 595 maternal-fetal medicine specialists, but shortages persist, with over 200 hospitals ending delivery services in the past decade and 19 more discontinuing maternity care in 2024 (AAMC).

• Medical assistant salary and job growth: Median pay for medical assistants is $44,200 annually ($21.25/hour), with 783,900 jobs in 2023 and projected 15% growth (118,000 new jobs) by 2033 (BLS).

• OB/GYN and related salaries: OB/GYN physicians earn $324,201, OB/GYN physician assistants earn $120,212, OB/GYN medical assistants earn $118,065 (with $118,627 in Pennsylvania), certified medical assistants earn $43,211 (but earn between $41,051 and $47,662 in certain states), and non-certified medical assistants earn $38,040.

• Impact of abortion restrictions on OB/GYN supply: After Roe v. Wade was overturned, states with abortion bans saw a 10.5% drop in OB/GYN residency applicants in 2023, compared to a 5.2% nationwide decline (AAMC).

• Regional salary variations for medical assistants: Certified medical assistants earn $47,662 in California, $41,051 in Florida, and $42,261 in Ohio, demonstrating location-based pay differences.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an OB-GYN Medical Assistant

Where can I find externship opportunities for OB-GYN medical assistants?

Externship opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience for aspiring OB-GYN medical assistants. Here are some places to find them:  Medical assistant training programs often include required externships at affiliated healthcare facilities, providing a structured pathway to gain practical experience. However, externship opportunities can also be found in a variety of other settings.

Hospitals with OB-GYN departments or women's health centers, OB-GYN clinics (both private and group practices), community health centers, and women's health centers frequently host externs. Additionally, Planned Parenthood centers and university medical centers with extensive OB-GYN services may offer such placements. Aspiring medical assistants can also explore online job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn, resources from professional organizations such as the AAMA, networking with local OB-GYN offices, and assistance from school career services or state health departments. In some cases, volunteering in a healthcare setting or connecting with alumni networks may also lead to externship placements.

How do state regulations affect OB-GYN medical assistant certification?

State regulations significantly influence the requirements for OB-GYN medical assistant certification and practice. These regulations vary considerably, with some states mandating specific certifications while others accept various certifications or have no specific requirement. A few states require licensure, which may involve completing an approved program, passing an exam, and paying a fee, while some states require registration with a state board, potentially involving proof of certification or specific training.

Furthermore, state laws define the scope of practice, impacting the clinical skills required for certification, and may also have their own continuing education and supervision requirements. There are variations in terminology, such as "registered medical assistant" or "certified clinical medical assistant," and some states may require graduation from a state-approved or accredited program. Regulations can also include exemptions for certain categories or settings, background checks, and are subject to change, necessitating that medical assistants stay informed about the latest updates. State health boards or regulatory agencies enforce these rules, which can affect disciplinary actions or penalties.

What is the scope of practice for OB-GYN medical assistants?

The scope of practice for OB-GYN medical assistants defines the tasks they are legally allowed to perform under the supervision of a physician.  OB-GYN medical assistants perform a range of clinical and administrative duties to support patient care. Clinically, they prepare patients for examinations, measure and record vital signs, collect medical histories, and assist physicians during procedures. They also collect and prepare specimens, perform basic lab tests, and administer medications as directed.

Administrative tasks include charting and documenting patient information, providing patient education, sterilizing equipment, scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and handling phone calls, ensuring efficient and organized patient flow within the OB-GYN setting

References:

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